Role of Membranous Septum in the Alar–Columellar Relationship: Strategies in Closed-Approach Rhinoplasty

Abstract

AbstractA normal alar–columellar relationship is crucial for lower third finesse in rhinoplasty. Hanging columella is a common complaint in the alar–columellar relationship and membranous septum excision is frequently recommended for its correction. This paper focuses on the role of the membranous septum in achieving a normal alar–columellar relationship. It was aimed to present an algorithm that could be used for aberrancies in the alar–columellar relationship.Ninety-seven patients who underwent closed-approach rhinoplasty between January and December 2022 were included in this retrospective study. Routine tip plasty maneuvers were performed on all patients. Membrane septum excision was not performed in any of the cases. Standardized preoperative and postoperative 12-month lateral view photographs were scanned for hanging or retracted columella.Hanging columella was observed in seven patients preoperatively (n = 97). No hanging or retracted columella was observed postoperatively.Hanging columella can be successfully corrected with alternative surgical maneuvers without excision of the membranous septum in closed-approach rhinoplasty in appropriate cases. Complete preservation of the membranous septum does not cause hanging columella in the postoperative period.